In response, states began passing laws requiring manufacturers to clearly label what materials were used inside pillows, mattresses, and upholstered furniture.

These laws were designed to:

• Protect consumers from deception

• Ensure transparency about filling materials

• Prevent the use of unsanitary stuffing

• Create industry accountability

One of the earliest regulations came from the state of Pennsylvania in the early 1900s. Over time, similar rules were adopted across the United States.

These requirements eventually fell under broader textile and labeling regulations enforced by agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission.

Who Is Prohibited from Removing the Tag?

The warning is aimed at:

• Manufacturers

• Distributors

• Retailers

• Anyone selling the product before it reaches the final consumer

The purpose is simple: once the item is in the marketplace, the label must remain intact so buyers can verify what they are purchasing.

If a store removed the tag before selling the pillow, customers would have no reliable way to confirm the contents.

So the law protects consumers — not punishes them.

Once You Own It, You Can Cut It

Once you purchase the pillow, mattress, or upholstered furniture, it becomes your property. At that point:

• You can remove the tag.

• You can cut it off.

• You can discard it.

• You can even frame it if you want.

There is no legal consequence for a consumer removing the tag after purchase.

The phrase “except by the consumer” explicitly makes this clear.

Why Does the Warning Sound So Serious?

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